Our Story
Big Lug Brewing Co
From beer tastings and live music to community gatherings, find the perfect occasion to elevate your Big Lug experience.
The Beginning of Big Lug
Big Lug's Origin Story
“Harry Met Sally” gets all of the love, but “Eddie Met Scott” is the real treat. The idea of our brewery started when Eddie Sahm was running a craft beer focused restaurant in Indianapolis. Through various beer events and friendships with local breweries, he met Scott Ellis and both had an affinity for classic styles, laid back atmospheres, and good music.
Over time, Eddie saw an opportunity for a food focused brewpub that could help revitalize the Monon Trail and bring something new to the northside of Indianapolis. Scott, never one to shy away from a challenge came on board and thus started the process of building a brewery from the ground up.
Beers were drank, terrible names were thought up, and many a research meal was had, but Big Lug was settled on in the end. The name was in reference to both Scott and Eddie’s demeanor and food/beer style. Unassuming, friendly, and passionate. Big Lug was meant to be a brewery that anyone could see themselves in and feel like there was a community waiting.
To this day they always keep that in mind. Beer is a community beverage. Sharing a beer will always be better than hoarding a beer. Big Lug will always try to be a place where people can share together.
The Story So Far
Keepin' On, Luggin' On
After Big Lug Canteens opening, our restaurant company, Sahm’s Hospitality Group, has grown across central Indiana. This meant more Big Lug taps too, but also meant that the word “Canteen” was a little too obscure. Big Lug Canteen stayed as the name for our Nora brewpub, but we changed the name of our brewery to Big Lug Brewing Company.
In 2018 we jumped on the opportunity to purchase and revamp a brewery near us. It tripled the brewing capacity of Big Lug Brewing, added a canning line (which we are convinced is the oldest in America, and we are at least 98% certain) to the bag of brewery tricks. On top of the production brewery, we also opened up Liter House Event Space and Half Liter Beer & BBQ. All three are staples of the South Broad Ripple area.
Since 2020, which was rough, the focus has been on quality, forward thinking brewing techniques, and balanced beer lineups to exceed expectations of our guests.
Our Mission & vision
Unveiling the Essence of Big Lug Brewing Co.’s Mission and Vision
Mission
Crafting Connections, One Pour at a Time
We at Big Lug Brewing aim to craft high-quality, innovative beers for diverse tastes. We focus on quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and pushing traditional brewing boundaries to create unique flavors. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive space for beer enthusiasts to enjoy. Join us in our flavorful journey of raising the bar in craft brewing. Be Kind, Drink Beer.
Vision
Brewing Boundless Possibilities for Community and Craft
Big Lug Brewing is dedicated to crafting exceptional beers that foster unity among individuals and deliver unforgettable experiences. Their commitment lies in innovative brewing techniques that prioritize quality ingredients, sustainability, and active community involvement. Each carefully crafted pint serves a specific purpose, aiming to generate a positive influence. Embrace the spirit of creativity, collaboration, and the joy of excellent beer by partaking in their offerings. Here’s to savoring every moment as a Big Lug moment!
Meet our Founders
Meet our Team
Owner
Eddie
Title
New Employee
Lead Brewer
Tyler
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